Parent Refusal for Initial Evaluation or Initial IEP
A parent has the right to refuse an initial evaluation, and/or an initial IEP for special education. Be sure to have the parent mark the box on the due process form that indicates that they do not give permission.  An evaluation plan should be developed for the student even if the team suspects that the parent will refuse the evaluation.  Be sure to send a copy of the Parents Rights.  If the parent refuses an initial evaluation, indicate to the parent that s/he should mark the box "I do not give permission" on the Notice of an Educational Evaluation/Reevaluation Plan, sign it, and return it to the school. 

If a parent has given written permission for an initial evaluation, the student is found eligible for special education but the parent does not want special education services for their child, follow similar procedures as above.  An IEP team meeting should be held and an IEP developed and sent to the parent even if the team suspects that the parent will not accept the IEP.  Be sure to send a copy of the Parents Rights.  If the parent refuses the initial IEP, indicate to the parent that s/he should mark the box "I do not give permission" on the Notice of Special Education Service form, sign it and return it to the school.  

 Use these form letters as the basis for developing a letter to the parent to document their refusal.  Use the same form letter for nonpublic and public school settings for refusing an initial evaluation.  There are different form letters for nonpublic and public school settings for refusing an initial IEP.  A copy of the letter and any other due process documents should be placed in the student's file.

If a parent refuses a reevaluation, an annual IEP or disputes a proposed change in an IEP, the principal or IEP Manager should contact the Assistant Director of Special Education assigned to their school for assistance.

 Parents refusal of service.pdf